Latest news with #Ling
New Straits Times
14 hours ago
- Health
- New Straits Times
HFMD surges past alert level in Johor with over 17,500 cases
JOHOR BARU: Johor has recorded over 17,500 cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) this year, with infections surpassing the alert threshold since January, says state Health and Unity Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon. As of epidemiological week 22 (ME22/2025), the cumulative number of HFMD cases in the state stood at 17,594, with the vast majority involving children under the age of 6. Ling said this year's trend was higher compared with the same period in 2023 and 2024. Although cases dropped by 26.6 per cent last week — from 1,525 in the previous week to 1,120 — transmission remains active across Johor. "The high infection rate among children aged 6 and below, who account for nearly 79 per cent of all cases, is deeply concerning," he said in a statement today. To date, a total of 101 HFMD clusters have been reported statewide, with one new cluster identified last week. Most of the outbreaks occurred in early childhood care and education centres, including 34 kindergartens, 27 preschools, 20 nurseries, 18 tadika, one primary school, and one private residence. Of the 4,192 individuals exposed, 525 were infected, with attack rates ranging between 3.9 and 42.9 per cent. Ling said the Johor Health Department issued two official alerts on March 11 to hospitals, district health offices, the state education department, and relevant child-focused agencies to ramp up prevention efforts. "The alerts called for immediate case reporting, enhanced clinical surveillance, stricter hygiene protocols, and increased public education — particularly among childcare operators and educators," he said. The state government and health authorities have urged all childcare providers to reinforce infection control, regularly disinfect surfaces and toys, implement rigorous health screening at entrances, and isolate symptomatic children without delay. Ling also reminded the public to maintain good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, proper cough etiquette, and avoiding the sharing of personal items. He said that health officers were actively conducting townhall sessions for parents, guardians, and early childhood educators to raise awareness and improve community response. "All HFMD cases must be reported promptly to the nearest district health office," he added. HFMD, caused by enteroviruses, spreads easily among young children in crowded settings. It typically results in fever, mouth ulcers, and rashes on the hands and feet. While generally mild, complications can arise in certain cases.
The Star
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Full support for Onn Hafiz from Ayer Hitam division
Close ranks: Dr Wee and Ling taking a group photo with party members after the Ayer Hitam MCA division annual general meeting at a restaurant in Yong Peng, Johor. YONG PENG: Ayer Hitam MCA has unanimously expressed its full support for Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi to continue leading the state. The division also passed another resolution for MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong to lead the party and be nominated again as a candidate in the next general election. Dr Wee is the incumbent Ayer Hitam MP. The delegates also want MCA Youth chief Ling Tian Soon, the Yong Peng state assemblyman, to defend the seat. They said Onn Hafiz has been an effective Mentri Besar, citing his strong leadership and vision for the 'Maju Johor 2030' agenda. The agenda has six key thrusts – good governance, sustainable economic development, an enhanced social safety net, improved facilities and basic amenities, security, cleanliness and the environment, and special focus on youths – to ensure its vision of becoming a developed state by 2030. During the division annual general meeting yesterday, some 200 delegates voted strongly in favour of Onn Hafiz to lead the Johor Barisan Nasional machinery in the upcoming state polls. A total of six resolutions were passed during the meeting, which was also attended by Dr Wee and Ling. Besides expressing support for all three leaders, the division urged the Education Ministry to review the new matriculation entry requirement, where those who scored A- in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia are not considered to have attained an A. The delegates also want an explanation on why lesser allocations were given to Chinese schools in last year's budget. On a localised issue, they were against the implementation of a paid parking system in Yong Peng, which they felt could lead to other issues such as illegal parking. The move could affect the livelihood of residents and businesses in the area, they added.
The Star
4 days ago
- Climate
- The Star
Be alert for hot weather, wildfire risks in southwest monsoon, Johoreans told
Johor government is urging people to take precautions as the current southwest monsoon brings hot, dry weather, and wildfires risks. State health and environment committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the monsoon, ongoing until September, would affect mainly west coast districts. Ling, who is also Yong Peng assemblyman, said dry weather was more likely in Tangkak, Muar, Batu Pahat and Pontian districts. He said this could mean more forest fires if people carried out open burnings. 'We are urging all Johoreans to avoid open burning and quickly report any signs of fire,' he said. 'Prevention is key, as once a fire starts, it can spread quickly due to dry, windy conditions.' Ling said the Malaysia Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) had also warned of squall lines bringing strong winds, heavy rain, and possible hail or tornadoes. 'Residents are advised to have their rooftops, nearby trees and electrical wiring checked to reduce the risk of accidents during storms,' he said. He also echoed reminders from the state government for the public to conserve water, and urged people to stay hydrated and healthy. 'Drink enough clean water daily and avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day. 'Heat exhaustion and dehydration can become serious if left unchecked,' he added. To avoid misinformation and panic, Ling advised the public to seek information from verified government sources such as MetMalaysia. 'Accurate information will help us all prepare better,' he stressed. — By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH
Borneo Post
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Tiang: Let art be the bridge that unites Sarawakians
Tiang (third right) with (from left) Ling, Ngu, Pastor Hii Mee Yieng and local community leaders in a photo-call featuring one of the artworks. SIBU (May 30): State Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang has called upon fellow Sarawakians to embrace the unifying power of art as a bridge between diverse communities and a catalyst for positive societal change. Speaking at the launch of the 'Encounter' art exhibition, co-organised by the Borneo Evangelical Mission (BEM) and Hosanna Christian Church, he praised local artists Clara Ling and Ngu Nei Cui for their joint curation, describing it 'a meaningful expression of a cultural and spiritual journey'. 'Art – whether it is music, dance, theatre, painting, literature, or film – is a universal language. 'It crosses borders, transcends politics, and goes beyond race, religion, and background. 'In a world that often emphasises differences, art reminds us of our shared humanity. It plays an incredibly important role in promoting cultural understanding and community unity,' said the Pelawan assemblyman. Adding on, Tiang noted that in Sarawak, where more than 30 ethnic groups coexisted with their own unique languages, customs and heritage, art could serve as a powerful force to bind people together. 'Art tells stories of who we are, where we come from, and where we hope to go. It allows us to experience life through the perspectives of others, and provides a safe space for dialogue and expression.' Tiang emphasised the government's ongoing support for the creative sector, citing major projects such as the Borneo Cultures Museum – completed in 2022 and is Malaysia's largest museum and the second-largest in Southeast Asia – and the upcoming Sarawak Performing Arts Centre, expected for completion by 2027. However, he stressed that promoting art was not solely the government's responsibility, saying: 'It is a shared mission for everyone living in this beautiful and diverse land.' Tiang expressed hope that art exhibitions like 'Encounter' would inspire people to 'live with integrity and compassion, moved by divine revelation and the pursuit of justice'. 'Let this be the beginning of something impactful, that through art inspired by faith, we cultivate good citizens who uphold righteousness and live to glorify God,' he said. ART Michael Tiang Sibu unity
New Straits Times
6 days ago
- New Straits Times
Family outraged, disappointed as Pamela Ling still missing after 50 days
KUALA LUMPUR: The family of Pamela Ling, the "Datin Seri" who went missing while on her way to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission headquarters 50 days ago, have expressed their unhappiness that she has yet to be found. "Fifty days and 47 witnesses later, they (police) have no leads, no suspects, and no answers," said Sangeet Kaur Deo, the lawyer representing Ling's family. She described it as a "national disgrace" that a person could disappear under the watch of law enforcement. "Is this the standard of safety and justice Malaysians are expected to accept?" she said in a statement. Sangeet added that Ling's family were disappointed and outraged over the "blatant failure" and "silence from those in power" regarding the 42-year-old's disappearance. "Could a life now be lost because public institutions failed to act when it mattered most?" Ling was reported missing on April 9, and police are investigating the case as a kidnapping. Previously, Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said he was confident that Ling was still alive and in the country. It was later reported that police were also probing the possibility that she had fled abroad.
